"Chris Cornell passed away late last night in Detroit, MI. His wife Vicky and family were shocked to learn of his sudden and unexpected passing, and they will be working closely with the medical examiner to determine the cause. They would like to thank his fans for their continuous love and loyalty and ask that their privacy be respected at this time."

Law enforcement officials told ABC News that Cornell was found by a family friend who did a well-being check on the singer around midnight at the MGM Grand Detroit hotel. The wellness check was requested by Cornell's wife, according to Detroit police spokesman Michael Woody.

The family friend forced open the hotel room door and found Cornell on the bathroom floor, Woody said. Police said his death is being investigated as a possible suicide.

Police did not release details about why they are investigating the death as a possible suicide, but noted there were "basic things observed at the scene."

Frakk it, another great songwriter and musician leaving us way too early. I remember when hearing Soundgarden for the first time and really digging the mix of the bands contemporary sound, and his voice who had this classic rocksinger edge to it.

Yeah, they're lining up for some helluva bend up there now..

Godspeed, mr. Cornell._________________"What, another one? But for God's sake why, they all look the same?!!"